Jets Face Decision on Rookie Quarterback Cade Klubnik

As the Jets gear up for the season, one intriguing question is whether rookie Cade Klubnik has impressed enough to secure the No. 2 quarterback spot.

Klubnik has had a solid training camp, making him a likely candidate to back up Geno Smith. Still, there’s the possibility that general manager Darren Mougey and coach Aaron Glenn might look to acquire a veteran quarterback via trade or waivers.

Offensive coordinator Frank Reich is not particularly concerned about the absence of a veteran quarterback in Smith’s support system.

“We’ve got QB coach Bill Musgrave and myself in that room,” Reich mentioned. “So, Geno has some experienced voices around him. The ultimate decision will come down to A.G. and Mougey. But Cade has performed well, and the dynamic in that room is strong.”

Klubnik took more snaps against the Steelers last week, though it’s uncertain how much playing time he will get on Friday night against the Giants. Reich acknowledged Klubnik’s performance in Pittsburgh positively.

“He’s incredibly poised,” Reich stated. “One of my favorite moments from him during the game was when we were backed up in our end zone. I figured he’d need to get the ball out quickly to the right, but the coverage wasn’t there. He calmly progressed all the way back to his No. 3 option on the backside without flinching.”

“That’s tough for any quarterback in the NFL. Standing in the back of the end zone, with the first two options covered, he had the poise to reset and find No. 3 as if he had been doing it for years. For him, that was my favorite play. He’s definitely on the right track.”

In addition, edge rusher Nate Lynn made a notable debut for the Jets last week against the Steelers, just three days after signing with the team. He recorded two sacks in that game.

“I was really impressed,” defensive coordinator Brian Duker said. “He had a short week, but he’s been a good edge rusher for a while, and it seemed like he just did what came naturally to him. It was fantastic to see, and I’m quite pleased.”